[Chapter-delegates] Happy new year!

[Raul Echeberria]

Dear Colleagues,

As 2012 approaches, I write to wish Internet Society Members, Chapters, partners, and friends a very Happy New Year.

The coming year marks the Internet Society's 20th anniversary and--as we celebrate this milestone--it is astonishing to reflect on the Internet's success and evolution over the past two decades. 

The Internet has grown from a network of networks connecting just over a million computers in under a hundred countries into a global network connecting more than 2 billion people in nearly every country. Today, people around the world use it to collaborate with colleagues, communicate with friends, and connect with family members. And, as the 4 billion people not yet online begin to use the Internet in the years to come, they will contribute to the Internet's continued evolution and vitality.

The Internet Society community has grown over the past 20 years as well, and our shared vision of an Internet that truly is for everyone has never been more important than it is today. In the past year, our concerted actions have promoted the deployment of IPv6, raised awareness about the importance of the Internet as an enabler of human rights, and fostered the partnerships and communities that are critical to the Internet's further deployment. We welcomed many new Members and Chapters, another indication that the Internet Society's mission resonates with organizations and individuals around the world.

I look forward to continuing our work together in the year ahead to help ensure the Internet continues to provide a platform for innovation, economic development, and social progress.

Most sincerely,



Raúl Echeberría
Chair, Board of Trustees
Internet Society
@raulecheberria